Solutions Engineer

About the role

The Solution Engineer/SE serves as strategic technical consultants and project leaders, supporting Automation Solutions sales, applied system development, and project initiatives across focused vertical markets. Operating with a high level of autonomy, SEs design, implement, and support advanced solutions that integrate Phoenix Contact’s complex technical products with third-party components to meet specific customer or industry segment needs.

Responsibilities

• Develop an expert area of specialization (industry/technology) as directed by manager and attain related certifications
• Mentor and advise Associate Solution Engineers, Technical Service, Product Engineering, and Product Management on product performance in the field and suggest design changes to improve product performance and customer satisfaction
• Design training programs and training material to support complex control system projects
• Develop advanced system testing and troubleshooting processes utilizing spectrum analyzers, storage scopes, power monitors, volt meters, and other required test equipment
• Provide applied solution design and engineering support to the Control and Industry Solutions team
• Independently qualify and gather input for designs through functional specification review or by direct customer interaction
• Provide pre-sales technical support and develop a concept framework based on customer requirements and industry standards and practices
• Develop and implement test plans to validate proposed solutions
• Develop and serve as technical lead on 'proof of concept' or pilot applications
• Provide project management as required, and advise project team on technical issues throughout the project lifecycle
• Develop, implement, and provide on-site installation start-up support
• Perform application demonstrations together with Phoenix Contact sales engineer and/or PSE at potential customer sites
• Research and understand existing competitive and emerging products and technologies
• Document and internally communicate data supporting the development of new products to meet focus market/customer requirements
• Support the sales effort of Phoenix Contact’s complex technical products when positioned and sold as industry solutions at OEM, end-user, and system integrator focused accounts within primary and supported market segments
• Support Phoenix Contact field personnel and channel partners in technical aspects relating to the sale of systems and solutions
• Develop and conduct control solution presentations and technology seminars to targeted audiences
• Position Phoenix Contact as a technology leader through active involvement in industry related technical associations
• Develop and maintain an expert understanding of industrial networking and communication technologies. Specific expertise in Industrial Ethernet Protocols: Profinet, Ethernet/IP, and Modbus TCP
• Develop and maintain an expert working knowledge on all Phoenix Contact industrial products with specialized emphasis on IEC 61131 programming, industrial ethernet (wired and wireless), and networked I/O
• Maintain knowledge proficiency through continued participation in industry trade events and conferences including active participation in presenting Phoenix Contact Case Studies, etc.
• Attendance and participation in accordance with corporate policies in local, national, and international meetings

Qualifications

• Minimum Associate’s Technical Degree + equivalent experience. Bachelor’s degree in engineering or technical focus preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years industrial automation experience
• Industry specific controls system design and programming experience
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work autonomously and as part of a team
• Ability to set priorities and perform simultaneous tasks
• Ability to meet deadlines and adjust to changing priorities to meet business goals
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficient computer skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Effective interpersonal skills with comfort in delivering group presentations

Essential Job Functions

• 35% Travel Requirement (2% - 5% Overseas)
• Must be able to lift 60 pounds
• Must be able to sit and/or stand for extended periods of time (2-4 hours at a time)
• Must be able to work on a computer for extended periods of time (up to 4 hours at a time)
• Must be able to travel in vehicles (automobiles, trains, and planes) for up to 10 hours
• Must be able to communicate effectively in verbal and written English
• Must comply with company dress code guidelines
• Punctuality and attendance in accordance with company policies
• Timely reporting of expenses
• Regular and on-time attendance.
• This is a hybrid position requiring at least three days in the office, unless otherwise specified.

What's in it for you?

• Phoenix Contact offers a generous benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401k matching, and a generous time off package.
• There are also a wide variety of additional benefits available including 16 weeks fully paid maternity leave & 10 weeks fully paid paternity leave, life insurance, short & long-term disability, assistance, and more!